The camera, mounted 20 miles offshore on Seal Island, provides a view of gray seals that migrate to the island each fall to give birth.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) _ A camera that records seal-pupping activities on a remote Maine island has begun streaming live on the Internet in what is believed to be the first camera installed on a seal-pupping site along the East coast and possibly anywhere.

The camera 20 miles offshore on Seal Island is mounted on a tower and provides a view of gray seals that migrate to the island each fall to give birth.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration biologist Stephanie Wood says the camera provides scientists with a firsthand look at seals during the pupping season from December into February. It also allows the public to view the activities from the comfort of their homes.

The project is funded by explore.org, a philanthropic organization in Santa Monica, Calif.